FSU Football: Ranking top 10 impact players for ‘Noles in 2017
By Kelvin Hunt
As of the time of this writing Matthew Thomas is still in limbo after missing the last couple of weeks of fall camp with a sickness and some mystery off the field issue.
However, it’s expected he’ll be back with the team any day now according to Jimbo Fisher.
Thomas is the best linebacker on the squad and lead the team with 77 total tackles last season. He made his mark in the second half of the season(like much of the defense) and finally started playing like the former five-star recruit FSU football recruited.
He can play in coverage and against the run with the ability to make splash plays as evident by his 11 tackles for loss last season. Thomas was also adept at rushing the quarterback on blitz plays, finishing the season with one sack and four QB hurries.
If Thomas is able to pick up from where he left off in 2016, he’ll put himself in prime position to be selected in the 2018 NFL Draft.
The ‘Noles have better depth at linebacker than previous seasons, but if Thomas is unavailable this season it’ll be a huge void in this defense.